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Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)

Group: Pastoral

Size: Medium

Coat length: Short

Grooming required: More than once a week

Coat sheds: No

Home size: Small or Large House

Garden size: Small/Medium

Lifespan: Over 10 Years

Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day

The most obvious difference between the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi is that the Pembroke has very little and sometimes no tail. Other differences are that their ears are a little smaller and set closer together, they have a slightly shorter, lighter body, a more wedge-shaped head, oval feet and straighter legs.

They are a fairly small with a well-proportioned head and body but short legs giving them a stocky look. Their double coat, in shades of red (with or without black) with white patches, is thick and longer at the ruff and backs of legs.

They were bred out of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi for herding cows. The low body and lack of tail meant that they could keep out of harm from the cows' legs.

They are a busy dog, interested in everything and highly intelligent, trainable, adaptable, loving and loyal. They need to be taught not to bark too much and puppies will have a natural tendency to bite ankles but this can be trained out of them. They need to be socialised well with other animals and may be a little wary of strangers but they are usually good with children. They are an active dog that needs a good daily walk.

The water-resistant coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing and combing and occasional bathing. They are prone to PRA and glaucoma. They are also prone to back disorders and have a tendency to put on weight easily so it is important to avoid overfeeding as the added weight makes the back problems worse.